shortened pitman arm

[Marco Tahtaras]

While such changes are not needed with good original steering, unfortunately that is probably one in five hundred cars at best. Folks need to overcome that as best they can and proper restoration is not easy.

It's not the easiest thing to visualize, but a shortened Pitman arm is essentially a gear reduction. It's really no different than shifting down from third gear to second to climb a hill. The engine turns more revolutions to get you there but requires less effort. Similarly, a shortened pitman arm makes it easier to turn the steering but requires more turns of the steering wheel to do so.

[Marco Tahtaras]

I have to add one thing thing to what I posted above. One of the worst causes of driving instability which causes lack of confidence and discomfort is slop or play at the steering wheel. Personally I find play at the wheel to be intolerable. Shortening the pitman arm will increase any perceptible play at the steering wheel proportionately to the increase in ease. The bottom line is condition of the steering column MATTERS!

[31Abone]

shorter pitman makes for slower steering but with less effort also/and a reduced turning radius.someone post before has their wires crossed.

[CarlG]

Originally Posted by 31Abone

... shorter pitman makes for ... a reduced turning radius...

Everything I have read points to this statement being false.

[Dave in MN]

Originally Posted by 31Abone
... shorter pitman makes for ... a reduced turning radius...

Originally Posted by CarlG

Everything I have read points to this statement being false.

Carl,
I installed a newly manufactured short arm, purchased at Snyder's, on my Phaeton two years ago before starting a road trip. The steering box is a stock two tooth Model A component. With the shortened steering arm, I cannot achieve full lock position on the spindles when turning fully from left to right. Some have said they can reach this position and I do not disbelieve them. So the controversy may have started because some do and some don't. I definitely notice the larger turning radius requirement. Before my next road trip, I am changing back to the original length. I just can't seem to get used to needing more space to complete "U-turns". My wife is the main navigator on road trips and she does not like wearing her glasses. She often says "Turn here" as we are just about even with the street sign. You get the picture? I make lots of U-turns and up until the shorter arm usually did so with a smile.
PS: I am planning a road trip to Alaska next summer immediately after attending the Loveland Colorado National Meet. I'd like to meet you. I'll buy lunch!
Good Day!